Kim Shorts: Be your best

When you write a column, it’s hard to ignore the obvious topics at the start of each year, such as changing one’s habits or starting a diet, that a writer typically writes about. I tried to and didn’t succeed.

My inner voice kept saying … Come on, do you best … which reminded me to work on being my best during this new year.

Yes, you may have guessed, I now get to share my recipe to help you be at your best.

This is certainly not an all-inclusive list and I know I’ve missed many tips for living, hopefully, a happy, healthy life.

Being kind is at the top of the list. It’s a great reminder that it costs us nothing to be kind, to help others when we can. You never know what kind of day people are having, so a helpful hand or a smile can go a long way to build happiness in yourself while spreading it to others.

By the way, smiling is infectious and a great exercise for your facial muscles. Also, as you age, those laugh and smile lines are a great addition to any face.

Giving from your heart will also fill your happiness cup. Whether it’s volunteering, shovelling the neighbour’s driveway or walkway, or donating food or clothing, taking the time to think about how you can help your family, friends or your community, goes a long way toward releasing those happy endorphins.

Another big one is to remember to be thankful. I try to make this one part of my daily routine. Take those few minutes at the start of each day to be thankful. I think it helps bring an equilibrium to life. Being thankful reduces stress and makes for a great conversation with others. Having this attitude as a habit brings a healthy balance to life. For me it’s easy to remind myself that living in beautiful Kincardine is a gift that keeps on giving, especially with the amazing people I have met and befriended.

There’s so much to be thankful for. Even the little things can help bring the most joy. I get a lot of joy out of making my sourdough, and discovered in my retirement, that I really like to cook. Something I did not really appreciate previously. I am thankful for the time I now have to take cooking lessons.

Getting into the habit of making the bed first thing in the morning brings a smile because I am thankful I don’t have to do it later. Weird logic, but it works for me!

Having good eating habits is another thing to be thankful for. This can help maintain a healthy mind and body, and it may help you live longer. Oddly, I am thankful for that magical mac-and-cheese that comes in a box. It was a lunch staple in our household when we were low on groceries. I had learned to appreciate its taste, but it wasn’t until, as a new mom, a friend showed me how to make it really sing with taste – put in a lot of butter! Yes, I am thankful I still love that comfort food combo.

Living your best life means focusing on the things that are within your control - on things you can influence, with a positive attitude. Negative energy doesn’t help anyone.

I was recently reminded by a friend not to change, after I made the comment that I need to work on my listening skills. “No,” he said. “Please don’t change. Just be you. That’s who I like!”

When we remember to be respectful and aware of the people around us, when we support each other and take the time to listen to others, to educate ourselves and make good choices, we also help others develop positive behaviours.

When you are at your best, you make good life-long habits.

Most important, be kind to yourself.

Just a quick reminder that if you are going to change your eating or exercise habits in 2026, you should always consult first with a medical professional or coach before starting a fitness program or diet.